A few weeks ago, the world was surprised when BTS’ maknae, Jungkook, unintentionally unveiled his private TikTok account. Initially, he told fans that the account was created for observation and he wouldn’t be using it. But he ended up converting it into an official account. The fans’ excitement was palpable when he posted a video of himself and SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu dancing to “SEVEN.”
Jungkook‘s TikTok journey has been quite entertaining. From engaging with memes related to his solo single to humorous edits featuring himself and other BTS members, every piece of content he engaged with had fans in stitches. But one recent interaction stood out from the rest.
@chojuhyeon
Cho Jo Hyeon, a TikToker who wears multiple hats as a voice teacher, music producer, and CEO of Bean Entertainment, shared a video analyzing Jungkook’s singing. This was in response to recurring criticism directed at the BTS member. In the video, he lauds Jungkook’s vocal abilities, specifically countering claims that Jungkook‘s singing isn’t on par with vocalists traditionally praised for having strong voices.
Cho Jo Hyeon elaborates that those vocalists sang in styles reminiscent of a particular era of R&B and rock. Those styles became the benchmark for excellence in the 2000s and 2010s because they were popular back then. But according to Cho Jo Hyeon, a quick look at the Melon charts will reveal that the definition of popular vocals has changed.
He says a song by Jungkook might not resonate the same way if sung by a vocalist with a drastically different style. Furthermore, he criticizes those who doubt the Korean superstar’s talent, pointing out that they aren’t deeply involved in the industry and merely reminisce about the past.
Jungkook responds to Cho Jo Hyeon
230812 @BTS_twt Jungkook's Comment on 조주현 CHOJUHYEON's TikTok Video
JK: I will work harder on my singing! I know the parts that I'm still lacking in and I'm working on them 🙂 But I know what I'm good at and that's what I'm focusing on! I know myself pretty well hehe Anyway,… pic.twitter.com/9jp61WaMkY
— BTS Translations / Bangtansubs (@BTS_Trans) August 12, 2023
In a heartwarming twist, Jungkook himself responded to Cho Jo Hyeon’s TikTok. He acknowledged that he could improve and expressed his commitment to honing his craft. But he also stated that he knows his strengths. His comment read, “I will work on singing more diligently! I’m aware of my own shortcomings, and I’m putting in the effort to work on them. But I know what I’m good at, and I’m doing that. Thank you, seonsaengnim! Only those who want to listen to my songs, please listen to them. I love you, ARMY.”
Jungkook‘s humility and self-assurance deeply moved the fans. Some took to SNS to express their admiration for his balanced perspective.
I love it. Very mature of him. I don’t know if the man said anything negative about it. But I think the professional was giving his honest opinion Either way. JK’s response was appropriate. Thanks for this. 💜🫶🏽
— Bwana (@bwanais1) August 12, 2023
The overarching sentiment is clear: while styles and preferences may evolve, genuine talent remains undeniable. Jungkook‘s journey on TikTok has entertained many and shed light on the ever-changing landscape of music and the importance of recognizing talent in all its forms. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured image: The BTS member displayed humility and maturity when acknowledging the coach’s video. Source: Twitter/@SBSNOW_PHOTO.